Emirates picks up its fleet renewal – 26 aircraft to leave in 2016

Emirates is continuing to pursue its fleet renewal with gusto, with plans to withdraw 26 aircraft next year.

Emirates Boeing 777-300ER landing at Birmingham Airport – Image, Economy Class and Beyond

Up for the chop are the following:

• 12 A330-300s
• 4 A340-300s
• 1 A340-500
• 6 Boeing 777-200ERs
• 2 Boeing 777-300s
• 1 Boeing 777-300ER

In addition, Emirates have pencilled in 13 more retirements in 2017, and another 13 in 2018.

I wouldn’t feel sorry in the least for Emirates though. Why? In 2016 alone, Emirates will be taking delivery of another 36 aircraft, split between:

• 20 Airbus A380s
• 16 Boeing 777-300ERs

This isn’t even half the picture looking at the Emirates backorder which is numerous and plenty – who have

• 71 Airbus A380s
• 42 Boeing 777-300ERs
• 115 Boeing 777-9Xs
• 35 Boeing 777-8Xs.

Emirates argue that this will lower the age of its fleet down to an average of 5.6 years old, with the airline reaping the benefit of more environmental and efficient aircraft.

As well as lower maintenance costs too.

Of course if you operate a small (sic) American carrier who loooovvvvees buying second-hand aircraft (no names mentioned), this could be a chance to pick some Airbus A330s and Boeing 777s on the cheap.

Still for Emirates passengers, there could be further innovations in passenger seating and comfort as they continue to roll out these new planes (and sadly, more cramming passengers in down the back of the plane…)

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